How to look your best in a bike photo
I've taken tens of thousands of photos of bikers going past me at speed, and the difference between the shots people frame on their wall and the ones that end up deleted usually comes down to five things. None of it requires slowing down, showing off, or doing anything remotely dangerous.
## 1. Don't stare at the camera unless you're smiling
A lot of riders clock me and immediately go rigid — chin up, looking at me with fear in their eyes, like a passport photo on wheels. The best shots happen when you're just riding, looking where you're actually going. I promise I've already got you in frame well before you see me. But eye contact with purpose can be the best shot of all
## 2. Wear something that isn't the same colour as your bike
Black bike, black leathers, black helmet, against a hedge — you become a moving shadow. A flash of colour, a bright jacket, coloured gloves, even a sticker on the helmet, is often the difference between a great shot and a smudge on the tarmac. Yellow, red and blue - they work best.
## 3. Hold your line
Swerving toward the verge for a "better angle" doesn't get you a better photo — it gets you closer to the ditch. I'm not going anywhere, and neither is the bend. Ride it the way you normally would. I'll do the rest,
## 4. Smooth beats fast, every time
Revving hard and hammering past doesn't look impressive in a still image — it just makes you blurry, and not a single person at the cafe is impressed. A confident, smooth line through a corner photographs infinitely better than anything done for my benefit.
## 5. Wave, don't pose
The shots that actually sell are the ones where you look like you're enjoying yourself. A quick nod or a wave as you go past is usually enough. If safe - and only if safe - a big thumbs up, salute or victory sign can look epic.
## How to actually get the shot
Follow along on any of my socials on the home page to see where I'm setting up next — sportives, bike nights, and the usual local spots. Then browse the bike gallery afterwards and see if "probably" turned into an actual photo.